In a do-or-die game for the Canucks, the Panama vs Canada match will take place this Sunday, July 14, 2013 (12:30 PM Pacific) at the Sports Authority Field in Denver. Panama is in first place of Group A with 6 points; a win or a tie will allow them to finish first in the group ahead of Mexico or Martinique. Canada is desperate to improve, as they have lost their first two matches and only a win on Sunday, plus a combination of scores would give them access into the quarterfinals.
The team coached by Colin Miller needs a win, and they need it with a good chunk of goals. The Gold Cup’s simple quarterfinal qualifying format still has Canada in the mix for access into the next round. To accomplish this, they need the 3 points, but they also needs a winner in the Mexico vs Martinique match, plus a hefty goal difference. This will be difficult to meet, as Canada’s main issue is scoring goals; in two games they have received 3, and have had as many goal scoring opportunities (well, you get the point). With no goals, the Canucks do not seem to have enough talent and form to earn a place in the quarterfinals.
Unlike Canada, Panama is in one of their best moments of their soccer history. Not only did they defeat Mexico and Martinique in their first games, but they are also in the last round of the CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers with a chance of earning a place in Brazil 2014. On Sunday, coach Julio Dely Valdes has the option of starting bench players, although this will be a bad tactic as winning Group A will be crucial in advancing in this tournament.
Panama vs Canada Prediction
The Panama vs Canada match will be a poorly fought contest between Panama who is already in the next round but who wants a point to finish in 1st place; and Canada who has played terribly in its first two matches but needs a win to try and obtain one of the 3rd place seeds. Considering the “marea roja’s” good form, they will continue playing with a good defense, and a good enough offense which will be too much for the Canucks to handle.
The Panama vs Canada match will end in a 2-0 win for the Central Americans. Panama will go into the quarterfinals with a perfect 9 out of 9 points, while Canada will leave the Gold Cup 2013 with their heads down, as they will exit without a single goal scored.
Panama vs Canada Television
The Panama vs Canada Gold Cup match will be televised this Sunday, July 14, 2013 on Univision and FOX Soccer Channel at 12:30 PM Pacific.
